English Explanatory Dictionary

artful

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adj
  1. Characterized by, or performed with, cleverness or contrivance; clever, ingenious.
  2. Not naturally produced; artificial; imitative.
  3. Exhibiting or using much art or skill; dexterous; skilful.
  4. Skilful at using dishonest or unfair means to achieve a purpose; crafty, cunning.
  5. Knowledgeable about the liberal arts; learned, wise.

Pronunciation

/ˈɑːtf(ʊ)l/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Mélange a trois-artful.wav /ˈɑɹtf(ə)l/

Word forms

artful more artful most artful artfull

Etymology

From art (“skill that is attained by study, practice, or observation”) + -ful (suffix forming adjectives from nouns, with the sense of being full of, tending to, or thoroughly possessing the quality expressed by the noun).

Synonyms

adroit deceitful underhand astute artful cautelous crafty cunning devious diabolical foxlike foxy frood guileful shrewd slim sly subtle tricksy tricky vulpine wily

Derived words

artful dodger artfully artfulness artful pleading inartful unartful
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